4:38 p.m., May 15, 2008--The Delaware Foundation Reaching Citizens with Cognitive Disabilities (DFRC) Blue-Gold All-Star Football Game Committee is partnering with the Down Syndrome Association (DSA) of Delaware to hold its fifth annual Buddy Walk from noon-3 p.m., Sunday, May 18, at the UD Athletic Complex. The event is a one-mile walk to promote the understanding, inclusion and acceptance of people with Down syndrome.

More that 1,500 people are expected to participate by walking, volunteering or collecting donations in the name of their buddy or team. Following the walk will be free activities for toddlers to teenagers, including carnival games, crafts, face painting, a young athletes' tent, moon bounce, obstacle course, bungee run, karaoke and a silent auction. Food and beverages also will be available for purchase. The Spirit Award will be presented to the team or buddy who has the most spirit during the walk.

All Blue-Gold participants, such as football players, cheerleaders, ambassadors, buddies and band members are invited to participate in the walk.

DSA's goal is to be a supportive resource advocating for the acceptance and understanding that allows individuals with Down syndrome to achieve the same level of access and opportunity as their peers. The DFRC Blue-Gold Football Game has been played annually for 52 years. The participants work together with the committee to generate awareness and funds for DFRC, which provides grants for programs that promote inclusion and awareness for people with intellectual disabilities. The 53rd game will be held at the UD Football Stadium at 7 p.m., June 21.

For more information and online registration for the Buddy Walk, visit [www.dsadelaware.org] or call (302) 995-1004.

Article by Maura Brady, AS '08